The Boys & Girls Club of Evansville is proud to recognize Samantha Blackwell as our 2025 Youth of the Year. Samantha recently represented our Club at the state competition, and we couldn’t be more proud of the leadership, confidence, and courage she showed throughout the experience.

Executive Director Andrew Backes shared, “It’s tough to put into words how proud we are of Sam. She inspired a whole room full of people. It takes incredible courage to do what she’s done and to be willing to share her story.”

Samantha is a shining example of what it means to be a Club kid. She is always willing to help others, whether it’s fellow members or staff, and leads by example every day.

Samantha describes herself as patient, respectful, and caring, and hopes to become a mortician one day. She credits her mom as her role model for teaching her resilience, positivity, and strength.

We are incredibly proud of Samantha and all she has accomplished. Congratulations, Sam! We can’t wait to see what your future holds.